PREVIEW

The Joint European Torus (JET), one of the world's largest fusion machines, bowed out by setting a world record for energy output.
During JET's final deuterium-tritium experiments (DTE3), the machine consistently produced high fusion power for an unprecedented 5 seconds, achieving a groundbreaking record of 69 megajoules using a mere 0.2 milligrams of fuel. This remarkable accomplishment marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of safe and sustainable fusion energy.
JET, a tokamak design employing powerful magnetic fields to confine plasma in the shape of a doughnut, showcased its ability to use the same fuel mixture intended for commercial fusion energy power plants. The fusion of deuterium and tritium, yielding helium and substantial energy, lays the foundation for future fusion power plants.
Dr Fernanda Rimini, JET Senior Exploitation Manager, said: “We can reliably create fusion plasmas using the same fuel mixture to be used by commercial fusion energy powerplants, showcasing the advanced expertise developed over time.”
Professor Ambrogio Fasoli, Programme Manager (CEO) at EUROfusion, added: “Our successful demonstration of operational scenarios for future fusion machines like ITER and DEMO, validated by the new energy record, instil greater confidence in the development of fusion energy. Beyond setting a new record, we achieved things we’ve never done before and deepened our understanding of fusion physics.”
Over 300 scientists and engineers from EUROfusion, a consortium of European researchers, contributed to these groundbreaking experiments at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) site in Oxford. Their dedication underscores JET's pivotal role in advancing safe, low-carbon, and sustainable fusion energy.
UK Minister for Nuclear and Networks, Andrew Bowie, commended the international collaboration and pledged continued support through the Fusion Futures program, with a £650 million investment in research and facilities.
JET concluded its scientific operations at the end of December 2023, leaving behind a legacy that will bring the world closer to a safe and sustainable future.
Professor Sir Ian Chapman, UKAEA CEO, said:“JET has operated as close to powerplant conditions as is possible with today’s facilities, and its legacy will be pervasive in all future powerplants. It has a critical role in bringing us closer to a safe and sustainable future.”
As JET transitions into the next phase of its life cycle for repurposing and decommissioning, a celebration in late February 2024 will honor its founding vision and collaborative spirit. The achievements at JET underscore its enduring legacy in the evolution of fusion technology, contributing to the promise of a safe, low-carbon, and sustainable future energy supply.